This DIY Stainless Steel Cleaner Uses Just 3 Ingredients (and It Really Works!)

Stainless steel appliances add a sleek, modern touch to any kitchen, but keeping them free from fingerprints and smudges can be a serious challenge. Between cooking splatters, greasy hands, and everyday wear and tear, it may feel like your stainless steel appliances look messy. While there are plenty of store-bought cleaning products available, they can come with hefty price tags, strong chemical smells, and ingredients you may not want in your home. Luckily, there's a simple, cost-effective solution that uses everyday household items.

This three-ingredient, DIY stainless steel cleaner is an eco-friendly and affordable alternative to commercial cleaners that still delivers impressive results. Plus, it only takes 10 minutes to make. Here's everything you need to know about creating and using this magic spray, along with a few bonus tips to keep your stainless steel looking flawless.

3-Ingredient Stainless Steel Cleaner

Make an effective stainless steel clean in 10 minutes with just three items you probably already have in your kitchen.

What You'll Need

• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 drop of dish soap (preferably a gentle, grease-cutting formula like Dawn)

How to Make the Spray

Start by carefully pouring boiling water into a heat-resistant spray bottle. Next, add distilled white vinegar to the bottle. Its natural acidity cuts through fingerprints, grease, and bacteria without scratching surfaces. Then, add a single drop of dish soap. Remember, a little goes a long way, and adding too much can leave a soapy residue. Secure the spray bottle cap and gently swirl the mixture to combine the ingredients.

How to Use Your DIY Stainless Steel Spray

Ensure the stainless steel surface is cool and dry before you start cleaning. Lightly mist a microfiber cloth with your cleaning solution (avoid spraying directly onto the surface). This technique gives you better control and prevents unnecessary moisture.

Wipe the surface in the direction of the stainless steel's grain to avoid streaks and result in a polished appearance. For stubborn spots or heavy smudges, spray the affected area lightly and let the solution sit for about a minute before wiping it away.

After cleaning, use a dry, clean microfiber cloth to buff the surface and enhance the shine, removing any remaining moisture.

How It Works

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in effectively removing grime without damaging your appliances:

• Boiling water loosens grease and grime, making it easier to clean.
• White vinegar naturally breaks down grease, removes fingerprints, and eliminates bacteria due to its mild acidity.
• Dish soap cuts through oily residues and lifts dirt without scratching or harming surfaces.

Together, these ingredients create a gentle, yet powerful, solution that restores shine to stainless steel without dulling its finish.

More Tips for Keeping Stainless Steel Clean

Maintaining your stainless steel appliances is easier with a few simple habits. Here are some tips to keep them looking pristine day after day:

• Wipe Regularly. Don't wait for dirt to accumulate. Wiping stainless steel surfaces once or twice a week with the DIY spray will help prevent grime from becoming stubborn and difficult to remove. Pay extra attention to handles and edges as they tend to collect the majority of fingerprints. 
• Avoid Abrasives. Steer clear of steel wool and other rough scrubbers. Use only soft microfiber cloths or sponges, as abrasive materials can scratch the surface, making it even more prone to buildup.
• Polish with Oil. After cleaning, apply a small amount of olive oil or mineral oil to the surface using a clean cloth. This creates a protective barrier that repels fingerprints and gives your appliances a sparkling finish.
• Clean Spills Immediately. Acidic foods, such as tomato sauce, citrus juice, or vinegar, can cause discoloration if they sit on stainless steel. Be sure to wipe up spills as soon as they happen (or as you spot them) to prevent stains.
• Tackle Tough Stains. If you encounter heavy buildup or stubborn stains on your stainless steel surface, create a paste using baking soda and water. Gently rub it onto the stain with a soft cloth, always moving in the direction of the grain, before rinsing and drying thoroughly.
  

What to Avoid When Cleaning Stainless Steel

While the DIY spray is safe and effective, it's important to avoid certain products and practices that can harm your stainless steel.

• Bleach or ammonia. Harsh chemicals, such as bleach or glass cleaners that contain ammonia, can damage the protective finish of stainless steel.
• Hard water. Hard water can lead to the formation of mineral deposits and streaks. If possible, use distilled or filtered water when preparing your DIY cleaner.
• Air Drying. Allowing water to air dry on stainless steel can result in water spots. Always dry the surface with a cloth after cleaning.